Siliguri Greater Lions Eye Hospitals

In facilitating accessible and affordable eye care, Vision Centres are pivotal for early interception and primary consultation. Serving as contact centres, it engages stakeholders, community agents, local groups, and duty bearers to proactively intercept individuals and guide them toward early eye care. SGLEH currently operates 18 Vision Centres across a 400 km region, strategically placed for early patient intervention. These centres also serve as referral stations, directing patients to the hospital for specialized eye care at subsidized rates. The Outreach programme focuses on women's health, employing door-to-door sensitization and workshops to empower women to seek eye care independently, fostering a healthier family environment.

Siliguri Greater Lions Eye Hospital (SGLEH) conducts regular Eye Screening camps targeting the underprivileged to eradicate avoidable blindness in North Bengal. In addition to general eye screening, specialized camps focus on Diabetic Retinopathy (DR), School screening, and specific occupational groups like Tea Garden and hazardous environment workers. Collaborating with local NGOs and clubs, these camps cover city, suburban, and rural areas. Surgeries, especially for cataracts, are performed at the base hospital either free of cost or at subsidized rates. SGLEH also emphasizes pediatric screening through teachers and ICDS workers, aiming to detect and address eye problems in children early. Tele-Ophthalmology, a unique initiative, aids in remote retinal problem diagnosis and recommendations.

SGLEH focuses on children's eye care with a dedicated centre, the sole facility of its kind in North Bengal. The child-friendly environment ensures a playful atmosphere during treatment, alleviating fears. Optometry Interns observe and learn from Senior Optometrists on the job, enhancing their understanding and empathy. A vital aspect is creating awareness among parents about early diagnosis and treatment. In 2018-19, over 9000 children received comprehensive screening and necessary interventions. The hospital introduced a Child Safeguarding Policy to prioritize safety and care for children and handlers within the premises.

Services at SGLEH include comprehensive cataract consultation and surgeries, addressing a leading cause of bilateral blindness in India. Trained specialists, equipped with world-class infrastructure, offer painless and stitch-less cataract surgery with high-quality lenses at an affordable range. The hospital also boasts the first dedicated Child-friendly Paediatric Eye Care Centre in North Bengal, supported by ORBIS International. Additionally, SGLEH focuses on preventing and controlling Diabetic Retinopathy through a long-term intervention, collaborating with the World Diabetes Foundation. The Vitreo-retina department, established in 2009, provides advanced treatments for various retinal disorders, ensuring accessible eye care solutions.

At SGLEH, the comprehensive Optical Shop within the hospital premises serves as a one-stop solution for all eye health needs. Offering the best quality eye lenses and spectacles at minimal rates ensures accessibility for everyone. The optical shop features a diverse range of eyeglasses and lenses, catering to various needs and standards. From budget-friendly options to high-end glasses, a variety of choices are available to suit preferences under the 360-degree umbrella of eye care services.